Exploring Side Gigs 101: Is DoorDash a Good Side Hustle?
Are you looking for a side gig that allows you to make extra money while balancing other responsibilities? DoorDash is an excellent side hustle to consider. While you deliver food to hungry customers, the app allows you to earn more money!
The best part? You can choose the time to do it according to your schedule. DoorDash opens up exciting possibilities for anyone who wants a flexible and successful side job. Let's explore this opportunity in detail!
How Does DoorDash Work?
DoorDash is one of the best food delivery companies across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, seamlessly connecting customers with their favorite restaurants and convenience stores.
Through the DoorDash app, customers make their requests. As a Doordash driver, you can see the requests and accept them. Then, head to the restaurant, pick up the food and complete the delivery.
To kickstart your journey as a Dasher, DoorDash equips you with essential gear. Following your initial dash, you will be sent an activation kit containing items like an insulated food delivery bag, a Red Card, hand sanitizer, and a mask.
DoorDash requirements to work for them
For a top-tier food delivery service, DoorDash maintains three primary criteria:
#1 Age
All Dashers must meet the requirement of being a minimum of 18 years of age or older.
#2 Vehicle
To become a Dasher, you can choose from many suitable transportation modes, including gas or electric cars, scooters, and bicycles. However, it's important to note that bicycles are only accepted as a delivery option in certain cities.
#3 Documentation
A valid driver's license is essential. You'll need to provide your driver's license and social security numbers in the United States. Consent for a background check is also required.
Pros of DoorDash as a Side Hustle
You've already caught a glimpse of the exciting opportunity that awaits potential DoorDash drivers. But, as with any important decision, there's more to the story. We're about to unfold the bright side of opting for this platform as your extra source of income.
Low difficulty in entry
Their signup process takes only a few minutes, and most Dashers can begin earning within days. All you have to do once the process has been completed is enter the app and simply click on "Start Dashing" to start making DoorDash earnings.
Flexible schedule
One thing that makes DoorDash worth it is the opportunity to manage your own schedule. It's up to you when, where, and how much you work.
DoorDash offers fair pay
You'll always have a base payment on each delivery you make, calculated based on time, distance, and desirability. Plus, when your customers tip, you keep the total amount.
When it comes to retrieving your payments, it's your call. Choose "Instantly" for immediate payouts via DasherDirect or weekly through a direct deposit to your bank account.
In select cities, you can earn an hourly rate while delivering, in addition to 100% of customer tips and promotions.
Signing up is pretty easy
As noted on the DoorDash website, all you have to do is follow these steps:
Signup link: Create your account using your email, phone number, and zip code.
Profile setup: Provide your Name and password to complete your profile.
Choose your vehicle: If you use a car, add its details. For "other" options, select the closest match.
Verify your identity: Verify your identity by uploading your government ID and a matching selfie.
Background check: To ensure safety, DoorDash performs background checks via Checkr. These include a motor vehicle report and a criminal history report. Most checks take a day, but some May take up to a week.
Cons of DoorDash as a Side Hustle
We've already talked about the advantages of DoorDash as a side hustle, but let's delve into some considerations before you get started. We want to give you a comprehensive view so you're prepared.
Vehicle costs
DoorDash presents exciting opportunities as a side hustle, but you should also consider your car's wear and tear. Deliveries can put extra strain on your vehicle, making maintenance more frequent. Ensuring your earnings align with upkeep costs should be part of your decision-making process.
Fluctuating income
As an independent contractor with DoorDash, your income can vary due to its payment model. Having the freedom to choose your work hours is great, but it can also mean inconsistent earnings.
Inconsistent Demand
DoorDash delivery drivers are navigating a dynamic landscape. Peak hours can be financially rewarding, but slower periods can be challenging. Finding the right balance between high-earning hours and slower times is vital.
No employee benefits
You won't have access to traditional employee benefits such as health insurance as an independent contractor. You'll have to consider alternative healthcare options. To make well-informed decisions about your financial security and well-being, you need to factor in the lack of employee benefits.
How Much Can You Realistically Make with DoorDash?
Because DoorDash pay depends on three main things – base pay, tips, and promotions, the actual amount a Dasher can make can vary.
However, according to Indeed, the average pay for a DoorDash driver in 2023 is about $15 per hour. Using these numbers, you could make $60 or more with tips in a four-hour shift. Not too bad, right?
Also, you can boost your earning potential by doing the following:
Taking advantage of promotions: During busy delivery times, your earning potential skyrockets. With Peak Pay and Challenges, completing a set number of deliveries within a timeframe means extra money in your pocket!
Choosing your location wisely: You're more likely to get back-to-back deliveries close together in high-demand areas. The faster you knock out deliveries, the more you'll make.
Focusing on restaurant orders: Restaurant orders usually pay more than quick stops at fast-food places or convenience stores. The orders aren't the only good thing. The tips might be, too.
Other Side Hustle Ideas to Maximize Your Income
If you like schedule flexibility and making extra cash, we've got good news! There are other excellent opportunities you can explore. The best part of these passive income sources is that you won't have to leave your house to start earning.
All you need is a couple of minutes and a device with an internet connection.
Here are other excellent ways to make good money:
Paid surveys:
Paid online surveys offer a convenient and adaptable way to earn extra cash during your free time. Many websites and apps pay users to complete surveys and share their feedback.
ForthRight is one of the most popular choices. We love ForthRight because it has a user-friendly interface and a dependable track record.
All you have to do is fill out their signup form, and you can start taking surveys! You can receive cash payments as well as excellent rewards. What are you waiting for?
Get started today with ForthRight.
Sell data through browser extensions:
Installing reputable browser extensions on your devices is another excellent way to earn more money. For example, SavvyConnect uses cutting-edge technology to gather significant data from your online activities, ensuring privacy and data security while providing great earning opportunities.
Additionally, the National Internet Observatory (NIO) offers a fantastic platform for selling passive data. An extensive network of companies can access valuable insights on this platform. You will receive fair compensation in exchange for your contributions, and your data will be protected.
Being part of market research studies:
Like the previous options, programs such as SJ Pulse collect actionable data through online surveys and phone usage data. With SJ Pulse, you can take surveys with Survey Junkie, a paid survey site that offers cash and various other reward options.
It works as follows: The survey methodology collects survey data, while the app collects usage data. This is an excellent option if you are willing to share more specific information about your online behavior.
Money is Calling Your Name!
Side gigs have recently become very popular. In a survey by Bankrate, 39% of people said they already had a side gig. So, if many people are making the most of these opportunities and improving their finances, why not try it also?
Curious to learn more about the world of side hustles and how you can amplify your earnings? Keep reading our posts for invaluable insights and actionable tips to empower you to unlock your full financial potential!